Dennis, but what is that machined ball end for? Also, the locating lug on the big piece should be a clue to something. I agree with Stephan, it does have a German military look to it, but that might not mean a thing.

The hole would have a chain or hook to pull on and the ball would be engaged in something. The wings would have had a spring inside the tube and when the top section was pulled the wings could be rotated then dropped into place with the lug in place.

Beyond that I have no clue but it is safe to call it an "on-off" switch.